Malaga Cathedral Works: Why ‘La Manquita’ is Covered in Scaffolding

If you have taken a stroll through Malaga’s historic center recently, you have likely found yourself in the picturesque Plaza del Obispo, looking up at our beloved cathedral. You might have also noticed a rather large addition to the view: a massive network of metal.

If you are wondering about the Malaga cathedral scaffolding and what it means for your visit, do not worry. You aren’t just looking at a standard construction site; you are witnessing a historic milestone for the city’s most iconic monument.

The Story of ‘La Manquita’

To understand the current works, you need to know a bit about the building itself. Officially named the Santa Iglesia Catedral Basílica de la Encarnación, locals affectionately call it La Manquita (The One-Armed Lady).

Construction began in the 16th century on the site of a former mosque and continued for over two hundred years. However, funding ran dry in the late 18th century, leaving the south tower famously unbuilt. But the missing tower wasn’t the only thing left incomplete. The main facade’s pediment (the triangular upper part of the front of the building) was never finished, and the roof was left with structural vulnerabilities that have caused severe water damage over the centuries.

What is Happening Now?

For decades, locals and historians have debated how to protect and complete the cathedral. Now, action is finally being taken. The current project tackles two massive goals:

1. Completing the Main Facade

The scaffolding you see from Plaza del Obispo is there for a reason. Works have officially begun to construct the pediment that will crown the main facade. This architectural element was part of the original design but was left untouched for centuries. Once finished, the cathedral will present a unified, complete face to the square, exactly as its master builders intended hundreds of years ago.

2. The Historic Roof Rehabilitation

Perhaps even more critical than the facade is the ongoing la manquita construccion tejado (roof construction). The cathedral has suffered from chronic leaks that threatened the priceless artwork and structural integrity of the interior.

The good news? The project is moving along beautifully. According to a recent May 2026 report from La Opinión de Málaga, the roof rehabilitation has already passed the halfway mark. The installation of the new protective structure and tiles is advancing right on schedule, ensuring the interior will finally be safe from the heavy winter rains.

What This Means for Your Visit

If you are tracking the obras catedral Malaga (Malaga cathedral works) to plan your trip, here is the practical breakdown:

• The Cathedral remains open: You can still go inside and marvel at the stunning choir stalls, the soaring vaulted ceilings, and the intricate chapels.
• Tours are ongoing: Guided tours, including the highly recommended rooftop tours (which offer a fascinating close-up view of the construction and the city skyline), are still operating, though routes may be slightly adjusted for safety.
• Photography: Yes, the scaffolding alters the classic photo from the plaza. However, it also provides a unique, once-in-a-lifetime snapshot of the cathedral in transition.

Seeing a beloved monument covered in scaffolding might initially feel like a slight bummer when you are hunting for that perfect vacation photo. Yet, there is something deeply special about watching a city actively care for its history. You aren’t just seeing a building under repair; you are seeing Malaga breathe new life into its greatest treasure, ensuring that La Manquita stands proud and protected for centuries to come.